Newcastle Vs Liverpool: 10 Big Predictions From Around The Net

4. The Anfield Wrap - Balotelli Might Come Good

Another prediction that Balotelli might finally be about to find his feet to the cost of Newcastle: the prediction from The Anfield Wrap podcaster Jim Boardman is at least tempered with optimism more than expectation. He also said that Balotelli and Fabio Borini might be able to come together and form a strong partnership in the absence of Daniel Sturridge - again perhaps a little wishful thinking. But it's the prediction about Balotelli specifically that might hold the most weight:

"Mario Balotelli coming of age as a Reds striker? His equaliser in the League Cup against Swansea on Tuesday could have been the turning point Liverpool have spent much of the season waiting for. It was looking like another early exit from a cup that means a lot to Liverpool supporters - think Bob Paisley in the 80s - and then, finally, Mario."

That is a sentiment echoed by Marc Duffy at ESPN, who cited Sod's Law to suggest that the Italian's lack of form would inevitably mean a bite on Liverpool's backside:

"Liverpool's Mario Balotelli has been one of the most talked about players in the country this season. Already branded a 'dud', Balotelli has been linked with a move back to Italy. Not-so-Super Mario scored for Liverpool in the cup midweek and over the years Newcastle have made a habit of falling victim to players in this kind of situation. He'll probably play a blinder."